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Panthers' RB Gamble: Dowdle Out, Doubts In?
6 Apr
Summary
- Panthers lost their top rusher, Rico Dowdle, in free agency.
- Dowdle is ranked higher than Hubbard and Brooks by PFF.
- The team faces uncertainty with Hubbard's form and Brooks' injury.

The Carolina Panthers might face repercussions for allowing Rico Dowdle to leave during free agency, a move that weakens their rushing attack. Dowdle, the team's leading rusher in a previous season, is now set to compete against his former team.
PFF's recent rankings place Dowdle at 27th among running backs, distinguishing him from current Panthers backs Chuba Hubbard, ranked 39th, and Jonathon Brooks, at 41st. Both Hubbard and Brooks fall into a lower performance tier.
The Panthers' current backfield strategy hinges on Chuba Hubbard returning to his previous form and Jonathon Brooks fully recovering from a second ACL tear within 13 months. This presents a significant risk for the team.
Adding to the Panthers' situation is their perceived inaction in signing suitable replacements. While they were linked to other free agents, they prioritized defensive upgrades, potentially overlooking the need to bolster their running back position.